1. This is the abnormal collection of serous
fluid in the scrotum which may be as a result
of impaired lymphatic drainage of the
scrotum.
2.
3. Hydrocele results from impaired lymphatic
drainage of scrotal structures as in the case
of elephantiasis.
Inflammation or injury to the scrotum.
Excessive production of fluid within a sac
which may be as a result of systemic
infectious disease such as mumps.
4. There are two types of Hydrocele, namely;
1.Non-communicating Hydrocele:
This type of Hydrocele occurs when the sac
closes but the body does not absorb the
fluid.
2.Communicating Hydrocele:
This type of Hydrocele occurs when the sac
surrounding the testicle does not close
completely allowing fluid to flow in and out of
the scrotum.
5. Hydrocele can be classified as Primary or
Secondary;
1.Primary Hydrocele: occurs in association with
acute infectious diseases of the epididymis or
as a result of local injury. The swelling is soft
and non-tender, large in size.
2.Secondary Hydrocele: can be as a result of
cancer, orchitis (inflammation of the testis). A
secondary Hydrocele is usually moderate in
size.
6.
7. An enlarged scrotum due to accumulation of
serous fluid.
Discomfort due to heaviness of the scrotum.
8. 1.History Taking: will reveals the onset of
symptoms such as swelling of the scrotum.
2.Physical Examination:
Inspection; will reveal an enlarged scrotum.
Palpation; will reveal a soft and non-tender
scrotum.
3.Transillumination: this is done to reveal the
presence of fluid in the scrotum.
10. Surgical intervention is indicated when;
i. the scrotum becomes too large.
ii. the enlargement causes problems with
blood flow.
iii. the serous fluid becomes infected.
11. Surgery; open operation is performed were
the surgeon makes an incision in the scrotum
and the Hydrocele is removed with the aid of
a laparoscope. This procedures is performed
on an out patient basis.
BEFORE THE PROCEDURE.
The patient is starved 6 hours prior to
surgery to prevent aspiration of stomach
contents.
12. Client is explained to the nature of surgery
and possible complications to gain
cooperation and allay anxiety.
A signed consent is obtained from the client.
Medial history is obtained to helps in
choosing the type and amount of anesthesia
to use.
13. AFTER THE PROCEDDURE.
Advice the client that if a drain is present,
some drainage may be present for the first 24
to 48 hours after surgery.
Explain the importance of wearing a scrotal
supporter. The scrotal support keeps the
scrotal dressing in place and keeps the
scrotum elevated, which helps to prevent
edema.
14. Assess and observe the client for pain every 2
to 3 hours immediately after surgery. If pain
is present, prescribed analgesics such as
Pethidine 50mg intravenously should be
given.
Emphasize to the client on follow-up visits to
have wound evaluated for healing.
Instruct client to stay off his feet for 3 to 5
days and limit physical activity for a week and
reassure the client that swelling is normal and
subsides eventually.
15. Needle Aspiration: use of a needle and
syringe to drain the Hydrocele. The needle is
inserted into the sac to draw the fluid.
Complications Of Needle Aspiration:
i. Temporal pain in the scrotum.
ii. Risk of infection.
iii. Recurrence
16. Transformation into a haematocele (a
swelling produced by effusion of blood),
occurs if there is spontaneous bleeding into
the sac.
Infertility which may occur with injury to the
vas deferens.
Testicular atrophy which may occur due to
injury to the testicular blood supply.
